Good eatin’ at DC Rack Haus
A little over two years ago, Beth Spigner was working at The Dinner Bell in quiet Dove Creek, CO. Then it happened: The owners decided to pull up stakes and sell.
Beth talked it over with mom, Athena Spigner, and the decision was made.
Purchasing the restaurant and becoming co-owners, revamping the interior and menu – these two ladies were on a mission, a mission to become the culinary goddesses of Dove Creek. And strong goddesses they are!
A military family formerly from California, the move to Dove Creek 16 years ago was another easy decision.
Though they had traveled far and wide, retirement brought the Spigner family to a place they enjoyed visiting often – Colorado.
What better way to put down solid roots within the community than to purchase a business to cater to it?
Now, many locals were a bit concerned. “What about the Dinner Bell’s menu?!”
Little by little, new menu items were phased in, older ones phased out. You know, like that Whole Foods Thanksgiving commercial, “They’ll never know, we’ll just phase it in.”
There are three tried and true dishes that remain: the Open-face Burger, Green Smothered Burrito, and the DC Steak.
DC Rack Haus uses the same tried and true green chili recipe, so it’s still the best around. There was no way that was coming off the menu – well, unless the new owners wanted to find themselves at the open end of a hanging rope!
The third easy decision was the days and hours of operation. Monday thru Saturday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. are prime time, and busy they are. Or I should say, were.
Unfortunately, COVID-19 exacted a hard toll on Colorado restaurants as well. They were not allowed to be open to the public for indoor dining but take-out options were available.
Memorial Day weekend saw the completion of an outdoor seating area which allowed “dining out” while following social distancing regulations at the same time.
Locals can, once again, flock to the Rack Haus for deliciously prepared breakfasts and lunches, mainly house-made with ingredients sourced locally.
During hunting season, hunters will eagerly continue to find the time for fluffy flapjacks and waffles; crispy French toast; and omelettes bulging with cheeses, meats, and veggies of choice. There are other egg dishes to choose from, biscuits and gravy, and, of course, the breakfast burrito.
Lunchtime features are geared towards American and Mexican cuisines. The burgers are half pounders, perfectly grilled with oozing delectable juices.
Try out the Snow-Cap with grilled mushrooms, onions, and ooey-gooey Jack cheese on a toasted bun. The veggies served are alongside the burger, so they are cool and crisp before you add them.
The burgers are two-fisters, so come hungry and ask for extra napkins. The side is crispy French fries, but you can substitute sweet potato fries or crunchy onions rings for an extra $1.50.
The portions are large, so once again, come hungry! Let me tell you, for the portions you receive, the prices on the menu are spot on as well.
There are wraps with or without meats. There is the “everyone’s favorite” Country Fried Steak served with fries, toast, and country style gravy. The Country Fried Steak is also a breakfast feature with eggs and home-style potatoes.
Looking for something more filling and vegetarian? Try out a veggie wrap, salad, or the Green Chili Cheese Fries. The cole slaw is house-made, and that includes the dressing.
Don’t be afraid to ask about ingredients. The Spigners want to make sure you have exactly what you’re craving.
DC Rack Haus is family friendly too, with a Kiddie Menu that will satisfy a child with choices of PB&J, Grilled Cheese, Mac n’ Cheese, burgers that small hands can manage, and chicken strips.
With the high season upon the Four Corners region and restrictions being lifted little by little, more business should be seen by visitors.
Having tour groups scheduling meal breaks in Dove Creek would be a huge boon to the overall community – indeed, to any small community where tourism is becoming a major attraction.
Tour companies need to get smarter about including breaks within small towns where the service is more homegrown and comfortable.
Overall, the atmosphere is cozy, the service is friendly, and the food is just what the comfort doctor ordered.
Whether you’re in Dove Creek, another nearby town, or simply passing through, stop into DC Rack Haus for a homestyle breakfast or lunch that will make your eyes roll with dining pleasure. You won’t be disappointed!
DC Rack Haus is located at 330 Highway 491 in Dove Creek, CO. You can reach them at 970-677-2656. They’re online at Facebook.com/DCRackHaus/. They’re open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., closed Sunday.